• Tickets for Sunday Admission ONLY
Spend a summer Sunday amid chuffing boilers, sawdust plumes and polished vintage chrome at the 62 nd National Steam Rally in Stradbally. Bring the family for rides, blacksmith demos, a saw-benching spectacle and live music—this is one of Ireland’s largest steam gatherings.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light — suitable for most visitors who can stand and walk on uneven grass for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Now in its 62nd year, the National Steam Rally is a longstanding highlight of Stradbally’s August Bank Holiday calendar and a major Irish steam and vintage gathering.
Conservation
Organisers and traders encourage responsible waste disposal and considerate use of the field; visitors can support sustainability by using local vendors and disposing of litter in provided bins.
Irish Steam Preservation Society
• Tickets for Sunday Admission ONLY
The Irish Steam Preservation Society operates heritage train experiences from its base in Stradbally, County Laois. The Society offers short, accessible rides on the Stradbally Woodland Railway where visitors can select between a steam locomotive or a diesel locomotive for a nostalgic 15-minute journey through mature woodland. The site includes an on-site coffee shop where visitors can purchase refreshments and enjoy informal family picnics on the grounds.
Seasonal programming includes the Santa Train Experience. During the Santa Train Adventure, guests are welcomed by elves, can enjoy face painting, and board the Róisín with Mrs. Claus for a themed ride through a festive forest setting featuring reindeer and other animal displays. The visit concludes with hot chocolate, vintage displays, and a special gift handed out by Santa.
The railway experience is suitable for families and visitors seeking short heritage train journeys. The Stradbally Woodland Railway is wheelchair accessible. All public information about trips and seasonal events is provided by the Irish Steam Preservation Society and focused on delivering short, memorable train rides and on-site visitor amenities in Stradbally, County Laois.
Location
Stradbally, Co. Laois
Located in Stradbally, County Laois
Ride Duration
15 minutes
Short, nostalgic woodland journey
On-site Refreshments
Coffee shop
Hot drinks and snacks available
Accessibility
Wheelchair friendly
Wheelchair access on site
Reserve Stradbally Woodland Railway or a Santa Train ticket for a memorable family outing — limited seats on each 15-minute journey.
Arrive early for parking
Large crowds arrive mid-morning; get there before 11am for easier parking and front-row viewing.
Dress for changeable weather
Layered clothing and a lightweight waterproof will keep you comfortable if Irish weather turns.
Carry small change
Many traders and food stalls accept cards, but small cash helps for quick purchases and autojumble finds.
Respect working displays
Keep a safe distance from operating steam engines and sawbenches and follow marshals’ directions for photography and rides.
Waterproof jacket
Shelter against rain and wind while standing outdoors all day.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Grass fields and uneven ground demand solid footwear.
Cash and card
Useful for food stalls, small traders and autojumble purchases.
Spare camera batteries
Sparks, steam and close-up machinery shots drain power—bring extras.